Iranians are facing significant internal unrest as the authorities have ramped up a domestic security crackdown following a 12-day conflict that resulted in the substantial destruction of three key nuclear facilities. Reports have emerged of widespread arrests and executions within the country.
Iranian authorities initiated this crackdown after Israel conducted airstrikes on June 13. This response included extensive arrests and increased security presence on the streets, as reported by Reuters, citing both activists and officials.
The stringent measures have dampened hopes—among certain groups in Israel as well as Iranian dissidents—for a possible uprising and regime change in the country. However, Reuters has noted that no significant protests have arisen so far. Additionally, some individuals on the ground have voiced frustration over the Islamic Republic’s policies, which they feel have incited conflict with the U.S. and Israel.
Armed NOPO special police units are on the scene as Iranians take to the streets in the downtown Enghelab (Revolution) Square in Tehran, Iran on June 24, 2025, to celebrate the ceasefire after a 12-day war with Israel. (NEGAR/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)
In addition to the arrests, there are reports that three people in Iran accused of being Mossad spies were executed, NBC News reported, citing Tasnim, which is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The outlet also noted that the three were accused of bringing “assassination equipment” disguised as alcoholic beverages into the country. According to NBC News, citing Tasnim, the “equipment” was allegedly used in the assassination of a public figure.
People move past a large banner featuring portraits of slain leaders from Iran-aligned armed groups, including Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, and Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani, in central Tehran, Iran, on May 1, 2025. (MOHAMMADALI NAJIB/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)
Nonprofit Iran Human Rights (IHR) warned that at least six others on death row for allegedly spying for Israel are at risk of execution. The organization also said that at least nine individuals have been executed this year on similar charges.
